Citizen Science Programs

Watching birds is more popular than ever! Tens of thousands of Canadians share their energy, skill, and bird observations through Bird Studies Canada's bird surveys. These "Citizen Scientists" provide a tremendous service by volunteering their time to track the health of bird populations.

Research and Conservation

Using data from our targeted research initiatives and Citizen Science programs, and in collaboration with conservation partners, our scientists monitor bird population trends, investigate declines, and recommend actions to protect the health of ecosystems we all depend on.

Help Us Conserve Canada’s Birds

You can play an important role in conserving Canada's wild birds! Bird Studies Canada supporters provide charitable donations as well as making
valuable Citizen Science contributions. Our nationwide programs are focused on the highest-priority conservation needs for birds.

Nocturnal Owl Survey

Owls are directly affected by changes in forests. These important predators are relatively easy to identify, but because they're nocturnal and nest early in the season, they can be difficult to monitor.

Information on owl distribution and abundance is essential for developing sound conservation strategies, identifying species in need of conservation action, and evaluating the effectiveness of management programs.

Through Nocturnal Owl Surveys across Canada, over 1000 volunteers spend one spring evening counting owls along isolated roads, to document population trends and breeding range limits.

Bird Studies Canada thanks all the volunteers and conservation partners who support Nocturnal Owl Surveys. If you live near Canada's great forests and can spare an evening this spring, see the links at left and consider
contacting your regional owl survey program to volunteer.